Let’s Talk About Co-Teaching in Special Ed (Without the Chaos)

Co-teaching in special education can feel like a beautiful mess. One minute you’re in sync, the next you’re wondering who’s doing what, how to include your paras, and where the lesson went off the rails.

I’ve been there—and I get it.

In the latest Teach, Task Box, Inspire episode, I’m breaking down some of the biggest challenges that come with co-teaching and sharing real strategies that actually help. From rotating teaching models and clearly defining roles, to building strong communication and involving paras in the planning process—it’s all about turning the mayhem into meaningful teamwork.

And yes, I’m sharing some real-life classroom stories too—because we all know those are the best kind of lessons.

If co-teaching has ever left you feeling overwhelmed, this episode is for you. Let’s make it a smoother, more supportive experience for everyone involved—especially our students.

Episode Highlights:

• Real-life co-teaching struggles and how to turn them into wins
• The importance of defining roles and avoiding the “floater trap”
• Different co-teaching models to try beyond “One Teach, One Support”
• How to include paraprofessionals as active, informed team members

Resources Mentioned:

• Free training: 3 Simple and Powerful Ways to Cultivate Independence in Your Special Education Classroom
  

Connect with Me:

• Instagram: @chalkboard_superhero
• Join my Facebook group, Special Education Superheroes
• Join my email list
• Shop my TPT store
• Join the Teach, Taskbox, Inspire Membership

More About Teach, Task Box, Inspire: The Podcast:

Teach, Task Box, Inspire: The Podcast is your go-to educational podcast dedicated to making your job as a special education teacher easier and more enjoyable. Your host, Lisa Hollady, is a veteran special education teacher with a passion for helping teachers like you make a real difference in the lives of your students.

In your demanding roles, you’re constantly juggling various responsibilities, from differentiated instruction and Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) to data collection, and, of course, teaching. That’s where task boxes come in.

Task boxes aren’t just teaching tools. They’re the key to unlocking student independence, student engagement, and personalized learning. Through this podcast, you’ll uncover the incredible task box benefits for your special needs students and practical implementation tips that you can take to your classroom.

Tune in each Monday for a new episode that will equip you with essential strategies and motivation to approach your week with confidence and enthusiasm. Topics will include task box activities, social and emotional development, adaptive teaching, inclusive teaching, supporting diverse learners, classroom management, scheduling, visual aids, and more.

If you’re looking for more special education resources and support to increase student independence, check out Lisa's FREE training.